Devil May Cry HD Collection for PlayStation 3 brings together the iconic first three installments of the Devil May Cry series into one high definition package, offering players a chance to relive the devil-slaying action on a modern console. As a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast, I must admit to feeling a twinge of excitement at the prospect of revisiting these classic titles. However, my enthusiasm was met with a tinge of disappointment as I delved deeper into the collection.
First and foremost, the HD remastering of the games does breathe new life into the visually stunning worlds of Devil May Cry. The high-resolution graphics make the eerie gothic landscapes and elaborate demon designs shine brighter than ever before. It's a joy to behold the details and craftsmanship of the original art, which was undoubtedly exceptional for its time. Nostalgia washed over me as I witnessed Dante's iconic red coat billowing in the wind and the stylish combo animations that made Devil May Cry a standout in the action genre.
Unfortunately, my enthusiasm quickly waned as I delved into the gameplay itself. While the original Devil May Cry, with its intense combat and demon-slaying acrobatics, still holds up reasonably well, the subsequent sequels, particularly Devil May Cry 2, falter in comparison. The controls feel clunky, the level design lacks the depth of the first game, and the overall experience feels disjointed. It's as if Devil May Cry 2 lost the soul that made its predecessor so beloved among fans.
Thankfully, Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening Special Edition manages to redeem the collection to some extent. Recognized as the pinnacle of the series, Devil May Cry 3 showcases the franchise at its finest. With refined gameplay mechanics, a compelling story, and a diverse range of enemies and bosses, Devil May Cry 3 captures the essence of what made the series so revered. Playing through this title reminded me why I fell in love with Devil May Cry in the first place.
In terms of additional features, Devil May Cry HD Collection for PlayStation 3 lacks the bells and whistles that one might expect from a modern retrospective collection. There are no behind-the-scenes interviews or concept art galleries to delve into, depriving fans of a deeper understanding of the creative process behind these games. It's a missed opportunity to provide further context and insight into the development of these influential titles.
Overall, Devil May Cry HD Collection for PlayStation 3 is a mixed bag. While it successfully captures the visual splendor of the original games, the collection falters due to the underwhelming experience provided by Devil May Cry 2 and the lack of additional content. As a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast, I appreciate the chance to revisit these classic titles, but the collection falls short of capturing the magic that made the Devil May Cry series truly memorable.
